Is This School Nickname Inappropriate?

When the high school opened in 1961, the rebel mascot was fashioned as a Southern soldier because the city had seceded from Burlington years earlier

The rebel could be on its way out of a Vermont high school.

The Burlington Free Press reports the South Burlington High School mascot was removed two decades ago. But the nickname has remained and some residents say it's time for a change.

When the high school opened in 1961, the rebel mascot was fashioned as a Southern soldier because the city had seceded from Burlington years earlier.

Bob Walsh, a teacher at the high school for 18 years, says he believes the nickname is associated with the racist policies of the confederacy and dropping the mascot isn't enough.

School board Chairwoman Elizabeth Fitzgerald says she never recalled the rebels being affiliated with the confederacy.

Officials say the board will gather public opinion before making a decision.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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